Devon, Alberta
Devon is a town in the province of Alberta, Canada, situated 26 km south of Edmonton, the provincial capital, and located on the banks of the North Saskatchewan River. Its 2003 population was 5 315.
Devon owes its existence to one of the largest oil discoveries in the world. On 1947 February 13, the Imperial Leduc #1 well struck oil, and the new town of Devon was constructed shortly thereafter by Imperial Oil to accomodate its workers. The company was determined that the town would be well-planned, and Devon holds the distinction of the first Canadian community to be approved by a Regional Planning Commission. The oil industry remains a major player in the town's business sector, though the economy has diversified to include tourism, manufacturing, and research.
Devon is amply served by schools, recreational facilities, and community services. It is only ten minutes away from the Edmonton International Airport, and is close to major rail routes and highways. It is located close to a motor sports park, a bird sanctuary, a botanical garden, and a number of other attractions to residents and visitors.
Devon is named after the Devonian formation, the strata which overlays the oilfield tapped by Leduc #1.